Evaluating Arsenal’s Tactical Evolution: A Modern Mourinho Comparison
When Jamie Carragher remarked that Arsenal was evolving into a “Jose Mourinho team,” he highlighted the growing defensive solidity and set-piece effectiveness under Mikel Arteta. However, this comparison has stirred debate about the implications of a defense-first approach in contemporary football. As Arsenal continues to navigate the Premier League, questions arise about their tactical identity and whether a Mourinho-esque strategy can lead to success or hinder their ambitions.
Examining Set-Piece Dependence
One of the most striking aspects of Arsenal’s current season is their increasing reliance on set-pieces for goals. Statistical analysis reveals a marked shift in their offensive strategy compared to the previous season. In the ongoing 2024-25 campaign, the Gunners have generated fewer chances from open play but have seen an uptick in set-piece scoring. This echoes Mourinho’s Chelsea, who excelled in set-piece scenarios during their title-winning years, scoring 39 goals from set plays in the 2004-05 and 2005-06 seasons.
Despite the tactical efficiency of set-piece goals, Arsenal’s dependency raises concerns. They have struggled to convert open play opportunities, as evidenced by their two goals from 63 shots against top teams like Manchester United, Newcastle, and Tottenham, where their expected goals (xG) stood at 7.83. The glaring need for a decisive striker to complement their set-piece success is evident, with discussions around potential January signings intensifying.
Midfield Creativity: A Missing Ingredient
In analyzing Arsenal’s tactical struggles, the midfield’s creativity—or lack thereof—emerges as a pivotal issue. The absence of Martin Ødegaard for eight matches has been significant; since his return, he has created a staggering 42 chances, nearly double that of his nearest teammate, Declan Rice. This stark contrast underscores how vital Ødegaard is to Arsenal’s fluidity in attack.
The midfield’s inability to transition the ball effectively has led to a reduction in progressive passes and through-balls, hampering their attacking dynamism. The introduction of players like Mikel Merino has drawn criticism for fostering a more lateral and less ambitious passing style, leaving Arsenal predictable and one-dimensional. The team’s reliance on the right flank, particularly through Bukayo Saka, has made them easier to defend against, especially with Saka sidelined by injury.
A Shift Towards Defensive Stability
While set-pieces and midfield creativity are critical areas of concern, Arsenal’s defensive solidity has also come under scrutiny. The team’s current form reflects a creeping defensive fragility, with errors leading to opposition shots already matching last season’s total. This decline raises questions about their ability to maintain leads, as they’ve dropped points in several matches where they had the advantage.
The balance between offensive ambition and defensive stability is delicate. Arsenal’s defensive resilience, once a hallmark of their game, is now threatened by injuries and inconsistencies. When star players like Ødegaard and Saka are unavailable, the team struggles to maintain control and impose their game plan effectively.
Rethinking Tactical Identity
The overarching question remains: can Arsenal’s current tactical evolution, reminiscent of Mourinho’s pragmatic style, bring them success in the Premier League? While defensive organization and set-piece prowess are essential components of winning football, neglecting creative attacking play could prove detrimental. Arsenal must find a way to balance defensive solidity with the creativity necessary to unlock stubborn defenses.
As they aim for a title challenge, the Gunners need to address these tactical shortcomings. Whether through strategic signings or tactical adjustments, finding a pathway to a more balanced and versatile style of play will be crucial. If they can recalibrate their approach, Arsenal may not only escape the Mourinho comparison but also position themselves as genuine title contenders in the modern game.